The Importance of Play, Creative Expression, and Imagination for Children

William Awad, M.A., Child Lane Program Coordinator

Play stimulates children’s brain growth and problem-solving skills. This can be seen when children work with puzzles, build elaborate structures, and join in collaborative imaginative play with others. Children develop spatial awareness when working with puzzles or structures by figuring out how to fit pieces together. They are learning about cause and effect by how the weight and shape of a block may or may not balance/support other blocks. Block play also helps children understand mathematical concepts in a 3-dimensional space. Although most children may not have the mathematical terms, they know when a block is two or three times the size of another block. They have a visual concept. Additionally, imaginative play with others allows children to engage in scenarios that require logical thinking and decision-making. Whether it’s pretending to run a store or taking care of a baby doll, these activities allow children to work through real-life situations, which aids in their cognitive development.

Play is also a vital avenue for developing social skills. In group play, children learn to share, negotiate, collaborate, and understand others’ perspectives. These social interactions are foundational for future relationships and academic settings when children are expected to work together. For example, children may need to take turns, listen to others, develop and discuss rules amongst their peers during playtime, and resolve conflicts. These skills require patience, which is strengthened when children engage in collaborative play. These are all essential practices needed as children grow to be adults. These skills help them interact with peers and lay the foundation for building empathy and learning the value of teamwork and supporting others.

Children gather to sing "Happy Birthday" at the Cabrillo Child Development Center in Long Beach, CA.

Play can also help children with their emotional development and expression. As an educator, I have used persona dolls and puppets to act out scenarios during large group time, using emotions to help children understand the idea of empathy. During play, children use toys and dolls to act out complex emotions or scenarios that may be similar to their real lives. This enables them to process their feelings, better understand their emotions, and express their needs in an appropriate way. When children better understand their feelings, it can be therapeutic by strengthening their coping strategies.

A preschool-aged child playing outside at New Harbor Vista Child Development Center in Wilmington, CA.

The most obvious benefit of play for children is their physical development. This is what most people think of when they hear the word “play.” Running, jumping, and climbing are crucial for developing gross motor skills, coordination, and balance. These activities also help children develop body awareness and spatial awareness—skills that will serve them well in extracurricular pursuits later in life. In addition to gross motor benefits, this type of play is effective in reducing stress and anxiety in children. It is an outlet to release excess energy and emotions. Physical play and exercise are crucial in activating the body to naturally relieve stress and tension.

Physical activity and exercise have also been known to promote the release of endorphins which regulate anxiety and stress. Physical play also helps children build resilience by navigating through environmental challenges. Building on their resilience gives children a sense of accomplishment, which can eliminate stress. Furthermore, physical play often involves interaction between children. Positive peer interactions can provide emotional support, reducing feelings of isolation. For instance, the children I see who do not function well in group settings with peers typically express their frustrations in an unsafe way. This can come from having feelings of isolation. However, the children I see who are comfortable in group settings and collaborate well with their peers tend to express any frustrations or negative feelings they have in an appropriate way.

Creative expression is an essential component of play. When children engage in activities like dancing, singing, or painting, they are not only enjoying the process but also developing their unique identity. When I could identify these moments as an educator, these were the most exciting times for me. I remember times when I would see a structure or artwork and would know without a doubt which child created it. Children learn to express themselves, explore different perspectives, and gain a sense of accomplishment through creative outlets. The feeling of accomplishment comes when children realize that their work is theirs and there is no other like it. Creativity allows children to think “outside the box,” imagine possibilities that may not be immediately apparent, and experiment with different solutions to problems. Providing children with creative, open-ended activities gives children the opportunity to express themselves as individuals. Children can develop preferences and realize their strengths. They discover new interests and practice their existing skills in whatever the open-ended experience is. Open-ended activities allow children to gain a sense of autonomy and confidence in their abilities. They are not confined to one way of doing something. They are given a “blank canvas” and are not expected to “color within the lines.” This independence boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to take risks, essential traits for future learning and growth. Creative expression allows children to engage in activities and learning environments that do not have or need a correct answer. It motivates children to engage in the thinking process, strengthening their ability to challenge and question things in a healthy and confident way.

During outdoor playtime at Cabrillo, a preschool-aged child colors in the shade.

Children may also be able to express themselves creatively while being given the opportunity to become culturally aware. Activities such as designing clothing or garments or cooking new, unfamiliar food allow children to learn about different cultures represented in their community and worldwide. Learning how other cultures make food, clothing, or art can, in turn, motivate children to develop new ways of expressing themselves, which sets them apart from other children.

Furthermore, creative expression often involves using language, whether describing what they are drawing, explaining a story during dramatic play, or singing a song. Through these activities, children enhance their vocabulary, learn new words, and practice storytelling. They also develop the ability to convey emotions and ideas through various forms of media, from verbal communication to visual art. As a result, creativity and communication are closely linked, helping children become more articulate and confident in expressing themselves.

Two children play in the sandbox at Cabrillo.

Play, creativity, and imagination are more important than ever in the specific time we live in. We live in a technology-driven world where children have infinite access to screen-based activities. The screen time that children consume today prevents them from physical play, using their imagination, and being creative. Most children’s screen time access consists of content that does not allow children to think critically or analyze. It is simply entertainment.

When given the opportunity, play provides children with an escape from the pressures of structured learning. It is the caregiver's responsibility to provide a safe space for children to engage in imaginative and creative activities. By doing so, we can help nurture a child’s sense of curiosity and exploration. Activities such as outdoor play, art projects, role-playing, and storytelling can immensely benefit a child’s development. Encouraging open-ended play that doesn’t have a predetermined outcome or product fosters a mindset of exploration and critical thinking.

The importance of play, creative expression, and imagination in children’s lives are intermingled, profound, and multifaceted. Through play, children acquire vital skills, discover their identity, and begin to understand the world around them. Imagination and creativity are gateways to exploration, empathy, and cognitive development, helping young children build a foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth. By nurturing these essential aspects of a child’s early development, we help them develop the confidence and skills to overcome the inevitable challenges and obstacles in their lives.